Printing from Dos programs in XP

[milan]

I use a DOS based program (Gemtrak) in XP on a 2 computer
peer-peer network with a LaserJet III connected as a local
printer to PC-main where the DOS program also resides. How
can I choose to print to any printer on my network? For
now, this program will only send output to LPT1 on PC-
main; I tried a parallel ro USB adapter (virtual USB port)
and the program would not print to it!
Any online resources for related printing tips?
Thanks

 

[Mikey]

A. The following worked on my Windows XP PC to have DOS programs print to
LPT1 and have the print come out on my USB-attached printer:

1. In Control Panel, double-click "Printers and Faxes" to open the "Printers
and Faxes" window.
2. Right-click on the USB attached printer, then click "Properties".
3. In the Properties dialog, click on the "Ports" tab.
4. Click to check the checkbox in front of "Enable Printer Pooling".
5. In the ports listbox, click to check the checkbox in front of "LPT1:".
6. At this point, both the USB line and the LPT1: line in the listbox should
be checked.
7. Click the "OK" button.

B. For network-attached printer, see this article in Microsoft's
KnowledgeBase:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;314499&Product=winxp
net use lpt1 \\PC-main\laser1 /persistent:yes
You must have your "PC-main" configured to share printers. See Control
Panel, "Network Connections", LAN connection, Properties, "File and Printer
sharing for Microsoft Networks". This can open up ports on your PC-main
that might allow bad guys to get to your PC-main from an Internet
connection. Ensure you have adequate firewall to block these ports between
your home network and your Internet connection. I use Linksys router between
my PCs and my cable modem to do this.